Macapa

Introduction

You will find Macapá situated on a small plateau within the Amazon, positioned in the northern channel of the Amazon Delta near its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean. Located in the North Region of Brazil, this capital city sits just northwest of the large inland island of Marajó and south of the border with French Guiana.

Because the equator passes through the heart of the city, you can experience a location known to residents as "The capital of the middle of the world." While road access from outside the province comes from the overseas French department of French Guiana, you can also reach the city via regular ferries to Belém.

Before you go

Prepare yourself for a tropical climate characterized by intense heat and high humidity as you travel through this equatorial city. You can expect consistent conditions throughout the year, with temperatures remaining steady regardless of the season.

Depending on when you visit, you may encounter the rainy season. While rain can limit your time outdoors, this period also brings the Pororoca, a massive tidal wave formed where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This natural phenomenon creates unique opportunities for spectators and surfers alike.

Getting there

Located in a region covered by Amazon rainforest, Macapá is geographically isolated from other Brazilian capitals and can only be reached by plane or boat. You can fly into the city from Belém or Brasília. If you prefer to travel by water, boats depart from nearby Santana for destinations including Belém, Santarém, and Manaus.

Alternatively, you can reach the city via land from Oiapoque on the border of French Guiana. This route involves traveling by bus or in shared 4x4 vehicles, though your travel time will vary depending on the rains.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using a variety of transportation options. Metered taxis and moto taxis are plentiful throughout the area, providing convenient ways to reach your destination.

• Metered taxis
• Moto taxis
• Buses

Where to stay

You can choose from several mid-scale hotels throughout the city, where you may find discounts on posted rates. Options include the Amazon Plaza Hotel located along the riverbank toward Fortaleza, Macapá Hotel, and Hotel Versalhes, which features air conditioning but lacks electric shower heads. The Ibis Macapá is another available choice for your stay.

Hotel Mais offers spacious, clean rooms equipped with air conditioning, televisions, and Wi-Fi. While the staff speaks only Portuguese, they are prepared to assist you through gestures if needed. This location includes breakfast and provides a convenient starting point for visiting nearby landmarks like Fortaleza San Jose de Macapa.

Food & drink

You can find a variety of restaurants and churrascarias located right next to the fort at the riverside, where locals often gather for lunch. For those seeking regional flavors, you can enjoy an extensive range of fish, shrimp, and crab dishes at Peixaria Amazonas, where the pink shrimp with garlic and oil is a standout choice.

Depending on your preference for atmosphere, you can visit Armazem for a lively evening or head to Bar Rods by the river for a more relaxed environment. Other dining options in the area include Restaurante Beltrão, Cristal Restaurante em Macapá, Louca Pizza Express, and Restaurante Temperarte.

What to see and do

Explore the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Macapá by visiting historical sites and local landmarks. You can stand at Marco Zero, a monument marking the equator where you can place one foot in the northern hemisphere and one foot in the southern. Nearby, explore the São José de Macapá Fort to view rusty iron cannons, archaeological excavations, and views of the Amazon River. For a look into regional diversity, visit the Sacaca Sustainable Development Museum, an open-air site showcasing the social variety of the state.

Experience the local culture and nature through these activities:

• Visit Apa do Curiaú to see a quilombola village where descendants of escaped slaves maintain traditional commemorations like Marabaixo.
• Savor gengibirra, a drink made from cachaça and ginger.
• Relax in Fort Park, which features walkways along the riverbank, lawns, and a playground.
• Observe the local flora and fauna at Bioparque da Amazônia.
• Visit nearby beaches, such as Fazendinha, which are popular for outings on Sundays.

When to go

You can expect hot and humid weather throughout your stay in Macapá, as temperatures remain consistent regardless of the season. During the drier period, you will find more favorable conditions for exploring the outdoors.

If you visit during the rainy season, you will experience heavy rainfall that can make outdoor activities more challenging. However, this period also brings the pororoca—massive tidal waves formed where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic Ocean—which draws surfers and spectators to witness championships between April and June.

Three days in Macapa

Day one, you can explore the local surroundings of Macapá and experience the atmosphere of the North Region. You can take in the sights of the Amazon River as you begin your journey through this part of Brazil.

Day two, you can travel toward the Amazon Delta to see where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. You can also explore the nearby areas of Santana or prepare for a different route depending on your preference.

Day three, you can enjoy the local scenery and take in the views of the surrounding landscape before concluding your time in this region of Brazil.